Empowering Guácimo: The Role of the Cámara de Comercio y Turismo

Who We Are

The Cámara de Comercio y Turismo de Guácimo is a civil association established in 2012, dedicated to representing the interests of over 50 local merchants, entrepreneurs, and professionals in the Guácimo canton. Our organization operates under the legal framework of Law No. 218 and is duly registered in the National Registry of Costa Rica.

Our Mission

We strive to defend the common interests of our members while promoting initiatives that benefit the community. By fostering collaboration among different sectors, we aim to enhance economic and social development in Guácimo.

Our Vision

We envision an organization that unites all stakeholders contributing to the commercial, productive, and socio-economic advances in Guácimo, Limón, Costa Rica.

What We Do

Our activities encompass a wide array of efforts to improve the conditions for businesses and residents in Guácimo:

• Committees and Collaborations: We actively participate in various local commissions focusing on Tourism, Security, and Environmental issues.
• Community Events: In collaboration with the Municipality, we organize social events like the Feria Gastroartesanal to boost local culture and commerce.
• Listening to Concerns: We engage with merchants to address their concerns and advocate for positive changes.
• Public and Private Collaboration: We facilitate meetings with representatives from various sectors to create optimal conditions for development.
• Advocacy: Through participation in organizations such as UCCAEP and CANATUR, we represent the interests of our members at higher levels.
• Advisory Services: We provide guidance on legal, financial, and procedural matters to help our members navigate the complex landscape of local business.

Addressing Challenges

We recognize several areas that need improvement to foster growth and development:

• Lack of Awareness: There is limited awareness of municipal development initiatives.
• Tax Efficiency: The management of tax collection can be enhanced for better public service funding.
• Project Delays: Slow progress on crucial projects like the PLAN REGULADOR and road improvements.
• Inefficient Bureaucracy: Excessive administrative procedures hinder progress.
• Limited Educational Opportunities: There are few higher education institutions in the area.

Proposed Solutions

To foster sustainable growth, we propose the following strategies:

• Reactivation of Institutional Councils: Resuming the Canton Coordination Councils to enhance collaboration.
• Mixed Commission Creation: Forming partnerships between the Municipality, businesses, and educational institutions.
• Asset Inventory: Conducting an inventory of local resources to improve investment attractiveness.
• Fiscal Incentives: Developing tax incentives for businesses willing to invest in Guácimo.
• Support for Free Zone Development: Advocating for the establishment of a Free Zone to utilize our strategic location effectively.

Conclusion

The Cámara de Comercio y Turismo de Guácimo is dedicated to empowering local businesses and enhancing the quality of life in our canton. Through collaboration, advocacy, and proactive engagement, we aim to create a thriving economic environment that benefits the entire community. Working together, we can overcome challenges and build a prosperous future for Guácimo.